Quarry scaled back: Plans to quarry 15 hectares of old-growth native forest on the edge of the Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area in South Westland have been significantly scaled back — with only 1 hectare ultimately approved. In 2021 FMC submitted in opposition to the proposal by Kōkiri Lime, joining others in voicing concern over the threat to this internationally significant area. The outcome is a clear reminder of the impact collective advocacy can have in protecting Aotearoa’s internationally recognised public lands.
Huts moving to the DOC booking system without consultation: DOC recently added Kirtle Burn Hut to their online booking system. When FMC raised concerns about the lack of consultation on this sudden addition to the booking system, DOC said the change was made due to safety reasons. FMC disagrees with this decision and believes we should have been consulted—especially to help address issues like large groups or concessionaires booking out the hut for exclusive use. DOC has acknowledged our concerns and is open to hearing about specific problems that may arise because of the booking system. If you experienced any issues at Kirtle Burn Hut since the change, please let us know at communications@fmc.org.nz.
DOC's parking charges trial at Aoraki/Mt Cook: DOC is trialling paid parking at White Horse Hill to ease crowding from day visitors. FMC supports better management — but warns against unfair impacts on backcountry users and volunteers. We've urged DOC to protect fair access and avoid setting a precedent for access fees elsewhere.
Pushback on threat to public access from Overseas Investment Bill: FMC has submitted on the Overseas Investment Amendment Bill, warning it could erode public access to our outdoors by sidelining environmental, heritage, and access concerns in favour of profit. Along with Herenga ā Nuku, we’re calling for stronger protections — so public access doesn’t become a casualty of foreign investment.
Fast-track projects: We continue to work actively on a handful of Fast- track projects where other groups are less focused. We're working on the Waitaha River power scheme in Westland, Tukituki/Ruataniwha Dam in Central Hawkes Bay, and Remarkables/Doolans expansion in Otago. Please get in touch with eo@fmc.org.nz if you have comments, concerns, or information about these projects, and we'll do our best to get our concerns in front of decision-makers.
Local knowledge makes a difference: Thanks to all FMC members who responded with feedback on forestry access and operations by City Forests Ltd in the regions of Dunedin and Milton, and also by P F Olsen Ltd in Ponga Silva forests across the motu. Your input helped us provide local feedback on these forestry audits. | 
